Sophie Colgan from Cavan named New York Rose of Tralee

Sophie Colgan and Unateresa Gormley, cultural director of the New York Rose of Tralee.

Sophie Colgan, a native of Lisnacree, Co. Down, was named the 2015 New York Rose of Tralee last weekend at Empire Casino in Yonkers. One of nine children, she lives Woodlawn where she is pursuing a career in public relations in the non-profit industry.

“I am enthusiastic about sport and enjoy playing and promoting Gaelic games both at home and here in New York. Since moving here I have captained New York's first ever camogie team; I enjoy writing poetry and singing and I am currently part of Manhattan Gaels ballad group,” Colgan said on her biography.

Colgan was sponsored by Pieta House, the Irish charity which provides suicide and self-harm prevention. Pieta House will open its first New York branch at the New York Irish Center in Long Island City, Queens in September.

The Rose of Tralee in Co. Kerry takes place from August 14-18. Colgan will first compete in a regional Rose final in Ireland from May 26 to June 11 which will determine if she proceeds to the worldwide finals in August.